Kerala Congress (M) factions in tight race to win polls

Kottayam: When hours are left for the Kerala assembly polls, both factions of Kerala Congress (M) are tensed in obtaining power in their seats. Jose K Mani-led faction of the party aims to prove that they have taken the right political stance. While, PJ Joseph’s faction has to overcome many hurdles in the polls.

Candidates of both factions have turned rivals at Kaduthuruthy, Changanassery, Thodupuzha and Idukki. Jose K Mani is contesting from Pala and PJ Joseph is in the election fray from Thodupuzha.

Mani C Kappan who joined UDF has been giving a tight competition to Jose K Mani in Pala.

For both leaders, winning the polls will be crucial to confirm their hold in the fronts.

Seeking votes for Jose K Mani, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan attended the LDF campaign meeting at Pala.

Meanwhile, UDF leaders and national leader Rahul Gandhi took part in the election campaign for PJ Joseph in Thodupuzha.

Kaduthuruthy, Changanassery and Idukki constituencies are witnessing a neck and neck fight between Congress (M) candidates of both factions.

At the same time, winning Kaduthuruthy seat is observed as prestigious issue for both factions.

Mons Joseph, another strong leader in PJ Joseph-led Kerala Congress (M), is contesting against Stephen George, a close associate of Jose K Mani.

Issues and scope

Joseph faction has solved the issues related to obtaining approval for the party after merging with PC Thomas-led faction of Kerala Congress. PC Thomas has been actively engaged in the election campaigning.

This party is contesting in 10 seats. The election commission has recently allotted ‘farmer driving tractor’ symbol as official symbol of PJ Joseph’s Kerala Congress.

At the same time, Jose K Mani hopes to make benefit in the assembly polls after the local body elections.

The faction led by Jose K Mani plans to use CPM support in Kottayam to woo maximum number of voters.  Though LDF allotted 13 seats to Kerala Congress, Kuttiady seat was returned to CPM amid protest.

Victory of Sindhumol Jacob who is contesting from Piravom will be crucial for the party. Sindhu is being fielded in the polls neglecting the protest from the local committee.

Amidst this, the quarrel between CPM and Kerala Congress (M) councillors in Pala municipality triggered another row.